How Much Does the RBT Exam Cost?

BACB Task List 3rd Edition aligned100% free, no signupLast updated August 2026Original questions with explanations

Certification costs break into three parts: the BACB application fee of $50, the Pearson VUE exam appointment fee of $45 per attempt, and the 40-hour training, which ranges from free through an employer to roughly $30 to $100 from online providers. A typical self-funded first attempt lands near $125 to $200 all in. Fees are set by the BACB and can change, so verify current amounts at bacb.com before paying.

The full cost picture

40-hour training: free to ~$100 depending on provider, often employer-covered
Competency assessment: typically free through your employer or supervisor arrangement
BACB application fee: $50, includes background check processing in most cases
Exam appointment: $45 per attempt, paid to Pearson VUE at scheduling
Annual renewal, once certified: $35 renewal fee plus the renewal competency assessment

What retakes cost

Failing the exam does not restart the application. During your authorization window you can retake after the required waiting period, paying the $45 appointment fee each time. Before spending another $45, spend a week with the domain breakdown from your score report and the matching study guide sections, then confirm readiness on the free 85 question mock rather than paying to find out.

How payment and scheduling actually work

Everything runs through your BACB account. You submit the application and pay the $50 there; once approved you receive authorization to schedule, then book a specific date, time and testing center (or online proctored session where available) through Pearson VUE and pay the $45 at booking. Reschedule policies have cutoffs, commonly a business day or more before the appointment, after which the fee is forfeited, so treat the booking like a flight.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the RBT exam?

The BACB application fee is $50, and each exam appointment through Pearson VUE is $45. If you fail, each retake is another $45 appointment; the application fee is not paid again during the eligibility window.

Does the RBT application fee cover the exam?

No, they are separate: $50 to the BACB for the application, then $45 per appointment to Pearson VUE. First attempt total is $95 before training costs.

Will my employer pay my RBT costs?

Very often yes. Many ABA companies cover the 40-hour training, application and exam fees for new hires, and some pay a training wage during the process. Ask before paying anything yourself.